Cancer screening rates vary across sexual orientation and gender identity

New research has uncovered persistent disparities in preventive cancer care across different sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) populations. The study, published in Cancer, found particular concern for cervical and breast cancer screening.

To assess SOGI differences in cancer screening and prevalence, investigators analyzed data from the 2018–2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a nationally representative annual telephone survey of U.S. adults.

Among 663,924 respondents who were eligible for different cancer screening tests, women of minority sexual orientation (such as gay and bisexual) were 8% and 16% less likely to receive screening tests for cervical cancer and breast cancer, respectively, compared with heterosexual women. Among men, those with minority sexual orientation had a 10% higher colorectal cancer screening rate than heterosexual men.

Compared with cisgender status, minority gender identity (such as transgender) status was associated with a 42% and 76% lower likelihood of cervical cancer and breast cancer screening, respectively, with no differences in colorectal cancer screening. SOGI was not associated with meaningful differences in cancer prevalence.

“The current data highlight how sexual and gender minority populations, particularly transgender individuals, face significant disparities in accessing breast and cervical cancer screenings,” said senior author Dr. Timothy M. Pawlik, MD, MPH, Ph.D., of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “The study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions, including improved training for providers and policy reform, to bridge these gaps and ensure equitable, inclusive care.”

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